Matthew 9:15 (KJV)

What does Matthew 9:15 mean?

Matthew 9:15 describes Jesus explaining that it is not appropriate for his disciples to mourn or fast while he, the "bridegroom," is present with them, but a time will come when he will be taken away, and then they will fast. Jesus uses the picture of a wedding celebration to show that his presence brings joy, but hints that sorrow will come when he is gone.

In this verse, Jesus is responding to a question about why his disciples do not fast like others do. He compares himself to a bridegroom at a wedding, and his disciples to the wedding guests. In Jewish tradition, weddings were times of feasting and joy, not mourning or fasting. Jesus points forward to a future time when he will be "taken from them," suggesting his coming death, and says that then his followers will fast.

The Greek behind Matthew 9:15

• νυμφίος (nymphios, "bridegroom"): This word highlights Jesus’ role as a central, joyful figure, much like a groom at a wedding. The use of this term frames his presence as a unique, celebratory time.
• υἱοὶ τοῦ νυμφῶνος (huioi tou nymphōnos, "children of the bridechamber"): This phrase refers to the friends or attendants of the groom, emphasizing closeness and shared joy. It clarifies that Jesus’ disciples are in a special position during his ministry.
• πενθεῖν (penthein, "to mourn"): The Greek word here means to grieve or lament deeply, not just to feel sad. Jesus is saying it would be out of place for his disciples to express deep sorrow while he is with them.
• νηστεύσουσιν (nēsteusousin, "they will fast"): This word means to abstain from food as a sign of mourning or seeking God. Jesus points to a future time when fasting will be appropriate, after his departure.

Why Matthew 9:15 matters

• Matthew 9:15 clears up why Jesus’ disciples did not follow common fasting practices at that time, showing their behavior was tied to his unique presence.
• The verse emphasizes the joy and celebration that come with Jesus’ ministry, contrasting it with the sorrow that will follow his departure.
• This teaching connects to the wider passage by highlighting the newness of what Jesus brings, setting his ministry apart from traditional religious practices.